Name: Best Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cups cooked rice (jasmine or long-grain white); 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Sweet, savory, and packed with flavor—this Best Teriyaki Chicken Bowl is your answer to a quick weeknight dinner that tastes like your favorite takeout but feels like a nourishing homemade meal. Tender bites of chicken glazed in sticky teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice with fresh broccoli and herbs, create a complete bowl that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a comforting meal in under 30 minutes, this recipe delivers. It’s versatile, family-approved, and easily customizable with your favorite veggies or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of crunch.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for that tender, juicy texture that pairs beautifully with a glossy teriyaki glaze. However, chicken breast is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be mindful not to overcook it to avoid dryness.

Ingredients for the Best Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Chicken Thighs: Rich and juicy, thighs hold up perfectly to the high heat and caramelized teriyaki sauce.

Cornstarch: Gives the chicken a light coating for extra crispiness when seared and helps the sauce cling better.

Soy Sauce: The salty, umami-packed base for our teriyaki sauce.

Brown Sugar: Balances the soy with sweetness and helps create a syrupy glaze.

Garlic & Ginger: Fresh aromatics that add depth and a touch of warmth.

Rice Vinegar: Offers tang to balance the sweetness and round out the sauce.

Broccoli: A fresh and vibrant green veggie that steams beautifully and adds a bite.

Cooked Rice: A neutral, fluffy base to soak up every drop of sauce.

Green Onions & Sesame Seeds: Finishing touches that bring color, flavor, and texture.

How To Make the Best Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut your boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a light coating of cornstarch. This step ensures a crisp exterior that holds onto the sauce beautifully.

Step 2: Sear to Perfection

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil and cook the chicken in batches until golden and crisp on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In the same pan, add soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss it in the teriyaki sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce is sticky and coats every piece.

Step 5: Steam the Broccoli

While the chicken simmers, steam broccoli until just tender and bright green. You can use a microwave or stovetop method.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Scoop cooked rice into bowls, top with saucy chicken, steamed broccoli, and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving and Storing Your Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

These bowls are best served fresh while the chicken is hot and glazed. If you’re meal prepping, store the chicken, rice, and broccoli separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

You can also freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving over fresh rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this gluten-free?

Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, both of which are gluten-free and still deliver big flavor.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works great. Just steam it until tender and drain well to avoid extra moisture in your bowl.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default. But if you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to your bowl.

What rice is best for this recipe?

Jasmine or white long-grain rice works beautifully, but feel free to use brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.

Can I double the sauce for extra drizzle?

Absolutely. The sauce is incredibly flavorful and can be doubled if you love your meals extra saucy.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this teriyaki chicken bowl, check out more savory weeknight winners:

Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a dump-and-go comfort meal.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for buttery indulgence.
Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole when you’re craving creamy and cozy.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce if you’re in a pasta mood.
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip for the ultimate finger food dinner.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with cauliflower rice or toss in extra veggies? Add a dash of spice?

I love seeing your creations and twists on these dishes. Questions and kitchen stories welcome!